Cloud computing has transformed how organizations operate, offering scalability, flexibility, and efficiency. However, with this shift comes a growing need for robust cloud network security. According to recent reports, over 90% of enterprises now use cloud services, but cyber threats targeting these environments have surged in the past year. In response, trends like zero-trust architectures, identity-based access controls, and AI-driven threat detection have surged in popularity, and these techniques are shaping the future of cloud security.
To understand how you can stay ahead of evolving threats to cloud networking — and combat them with the best solution for your business — it's crucial to first understand the basics of cloud networking.
In this post, we’ll cover the basics of cloud network security and next steps to learn more.
What is cloud network security?
Cloud network security encompasses a set of policies, controls, and technologies designed to protect cloud-based infrastructure, applications, and data from cyber threats. In other words, cloud network security focuses on protecting data and information stored in — or processed through —SaaS applications, cloud infrastructure platforms like Amazon AWS, and other cloud-based services).
Cloud security includes various security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), encryption, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and zero trust network access. These elements work in tandem to provide comprehensive protection against unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyber-attacks.
For IT teams managing cloud environments, security is paramount. Unauthorized access, data breaches, and compliance violations can have severe consequences, including financial losses, reputational damage, and legal repercussions — not to mention the loss of business continuity and customer trust. Protecting customers and employees is the core of cloud network security.
Network security vs. cloud network security
Network security and cloud network security share similar goals but operate in different environments. Below is a comparative table:
|
Feature |
Traditional Network Security |
Cloud Network Security |
|
Infrastructure |
On-premises firewalls and security appliances |
Cloud-native security tools and policies |
|
Access Control |
Perimeter-based security (IP-based filtering, firewalls) |
Identity-based access and zero trust architecture |
|
Scalability |
Limited by hardware capabilities and network architecture |
Highly scalable across distributed cloud environments |
|
Threat Response |
Relies on manual monitoring and legacy systems |
Automated threat detection and response mechanisms |
While traditional network security focuses on securing on-premises infrastructures with firewalls and endpoint security, cloud network security is more dynamic, requiring robust access controls, automated monitoring, and real-time threat intelligence to counteract sophisticated cyber threats.
Private cloud vs. public cloud network security
Organizations can choose between private and public clouds (or a combination of both), each with distinct security considerations:
|
Feature |
Private Cloud Security |
Public Cloud Security |
|
Control |
Full control over security settings, data storage, and infrastructure |
Security responsibility is shared with the cloud provider |
|
Customization |
Highly customizable security configurations and policies |
Provider-defined security configurations with limited customization |
|
Compliance |
Easier to meet strict compliance requirements due to direct control |
Compliance support is provided, but data protection responsibility remains with the organization |
|
Cost |
Higher costs due to dedicated infrastructure and maintenance |
Lower cost with flexible, pay-as-you-go pricing models |
Organizations using private clouds maintain direct control over security configurations, making them ideal for industries with strict regulatory requirements. Meanwhile, public clouds offer cost-effective scalability but require robust access management and compliance measures to ensure security.
Key components of effective cloud network security
Securing cloud environments requires a multi-layered approach that incorporates various security measures. When you start creating your cloud network security strategy, you can enhance cloud security through the following key components:
Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)
Firewalls act as the first line of defense by monitoring and filtering incoming and outgoing network traffic. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) analyze network behavior, identifying potential threats in real time. OpenVPN integrates advanced IDS capabilities to detect, alert, and mitigate cyber threats before they compromise cloud environments.
Encryption
Encryption plays a vital role in safeguarding data at rest and in transit. It ensures that even if unauthorized parties intercept data, they cannot read or use it. OpenVPN employs industry-leading encryption protocols such as TLS to secure communication channels and prevent unauthorized data access.
Access control
Identity-based access control mechanisms ensure that only authorized users and devices can access cloud resources. Multi-factor authentication (MFA), role-based access controls (RBAC), and single sign-on (SSO) solutions enhance security by minimizing the risk of credential theft and unauthorized access. OpenVPN’s solutions enable IT teams to implement Zero Trust security models, ensuring stringent access control.
Challenges faced by IT teams in cloud network security
Despite advancements in cloud security, IT teams still face several challenges in securing cloud environments effectively. However, just knowing the challenges is part of the battle. These challenges include:
Management of multiple cloud environments
As organizations adopt multi-cloud strategies, managing security across different cloud service providers (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) becomes complex. IT teams must ensure uniform security policies, integrate different security tools, and monitor diverse environments to prevent security gaps.
Compliance requirements
Industries such as healthcare, finance, and government require compliance with strict regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2. Failure to meet compliance standards can result in heavy fines and legal consequences. IT teams must continuously audit and enforce security controls to maintain compliance across cloud environments.
Evolving threat landscape
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, with new vulnerabilities, ransomware attacks, and advanced persistent threats (APTs) emerging regularly. IT teams need automated threat intelligence and proactive security monitoring to stay ahead of malicious actors.
With these challenges in mind, it is critical for IT teams to select a trusted security provider that offers comprehensive protection against emerging threats.
How OpenVPN stands out in cloud network security
Now, we have to take a moment to brag. Our solutions differentiate OpenVPN from other providers in several key ways:
- Secure remote access: Ensuring encrypted and seamless connectivity for remote workers and distributed teams.
- Identity-based access controls: Implementing zero-trust frameworks (including device posture check) with MFA and RBAC for enhanced security.
- Integrated security features: Offering IDS/IPS capabilities, encryption, and access control mechanisms in a single solution.
- Scalability and ease of management: Providing cloud-native, scalable solutions that simplify security management across multi-cloud environments.
Real-life examples
Organizations worldwide trust OpenVPN as the foundation of their Zero Trust strategy, which in turn protects their cloud infrastructure. You can read more through our G2 reviews, provided by actual OpenVPN users.
By leveraging OpenVPN’s solutions, organizations can confidently secure their cloud environments, protect sensitive data, and navigate the complexities of modern cloud security with ease.
To learn more about cloud network security and trends in securing your network, download the Enterprise Strategy Group Research Report, sponsored by OpenVPN.
